Psalm 23:4 - “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” I love the first two words of this verse - “Even though”. Here’s why: every day my life - and your life - is filled with “even though’s”. “Even though that thing didn’t work out as I’d hoped.” “Even though that person disappointed me.” “Even though God didn’t answer my prayer the way I wanted.” “Even though I blew it, again.” “Even though I’m really stressed out and weary.” “Even though I can’t figure any of this out.” These two words - “Even though” - tell us that in the middle of our hard or confusing or unsettling or even dark circumstances that we still have a hope that is real and massive. They tell us that our story isn’t over. They assure us that what we face and feel is not permanent. Why? Because of the personal reality that
“You are with me”.
“You” - the God of the universe Who rules everything, Who loves passionately and is a good Father.
“are” - right now, present tense, in that moment.
“with” - right here, completely seeing, knowing, and fully committed.
“me” - the one who is deeply in need.
That is what is most true. What is your “Even though” situation today? Take heart. You are not in it alone. The “darkest valley” cannot stop your God and it cannot hide you from His tender gaze. He is there, right there, totally present. And because He is, you have real hope. Anything can happen.